Our current situation transformed most of our homes into classrooms. We aren’t all teachers, so seeing our kids in a setup that’s usually their weekdays out of the homes, could be eye-opening and somewhat overwhelming.
We also became sensitive to other things we aren’t familiar about when things were normal. Also, we may be able to see what makes our kids thrive or be comfortable with when studying as we spend days with them in a classroom kind of setup.
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Sensory-sensitive students
If you’re a teacher, you surely have noticed kids who have different reactions than others. As a parent, you know your kids well and you might also have seen each of your kids having different personalities and different responses to your upbringing and methods of teaching (not only academically).
Create a Sensory-Friendly Classroom
To make a student’s full potential manifest, it’s important to have a conducive atmosphere. But because in a classroom setup, all students are in the same environment, it may difficult for all to thrive in the same way or speed.
There are simple ways though on how to make a sensory-friendly classroom. While this infographic shows such for a classroom, the methods can also be adapted at home.
Use Alternative Seats
We’re all used to wooden table and chairs in a classroom, bean bags in a more casual classroom setup will make for a cozier learning atmosphere.
Use Natural Light
Minimize the use of lamps or artificial lights so as not to overstimulate the kids.
Setup an Art Station
Picasso once said: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” Having an art corner will help them express themselves and you can observe them and their personalities – kids who do not like mess, kids who are too hard on coloring, gentle ones, and those who enjoy creating something from scratch.
Allow Headphones
When writing, there are those who need complete silence to be able to focus. Allowing the use of headphones to block out noise would be beneficial to these kids.
Use Music
‘There are two means of refuge from the misery of life — music and cats.’ Not all of us have cats, but we all have access to music. Music can encourage kids to learn and it’s relaxing.
Physical Activities
“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” This doesn’t only go for adults, kids who are always down on books can have a breather with some ball play, climbing nets, and running.
Repeat
Repetition is the mother of learning. While many kids can understand as soon as they heard, some kids may not be such. Repetition doesn’t mean undermining kids’ abilities, even adults need being repeated to at some point.
Hand-eye Coordination Activities
There are particular games that enhances kids’ hand-eye coordination. Some often listed are the following:
- Lego blocks
- Relay Races
- Volleyball⠀
- Puzzles
- Playing tennis ⠀
- Building with blocks⠀
- Connecting the dots ⠀
- Stringing beads ⠀
Theoretical Learning
Observing the kids would make you see if they have reservations about some things. For example, a child may not want to go up a slide because he might be afraid of heights, it would be best to include a lesson on tall buildings and such to pique their interest.
Group Activities
Some kids do well individually, other are better when they are in group. Some are leaders, others are doers – having group activities will make a kid’s potential show.
Use Stress balls
Encourage the use of stress balls, this will be helpful for kids who get anxious about particular stimuli.
Be Understanding
Not every kid will be able to participate in every activities you plan. Understand that every kid is unique, both with their capabilities and weaknesses.
Collaborate with Therapists, School Psychologists, Other Teachers, and Other Parents
There’s nothing more secure than having a support system to make a child thrive. As a teacher, one should work with other school personnels to make sure that the classroom is a good environment for children.
If you are a parent, coordinate with the teacher-in-charge of the class often. Make sure that you monitor your child’s or children’s progress or if they need support with anything. Also be in contact with school psychologists to better understand the phases your child goes through. Another support group you can count on would the parent’s association – and the parents of your child’s friends. It’s always cool to keep them in your circle.
Kindly share this infographic to teachers and fellow parents.
Please include attribution to WPSPublish.com with this graphic.
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